What is Coriander?Coriander, commonly known as Dhaniya in the Indian Subcontinent and Cilantro in the America and some parts of Europe, is anherbthat is extensively used around the world as a condiment, garnish, or decoration on culinary dishes. Its scientific name isCoriandrum sativum L.Its leaves andfruitshavea recognizable and pleasant aroma and are commonly used raw or dried for culinary applications.
Coriander Nutrition FactsIts uses in globalfoodpreparation are only the tip of the iceberg. Unbeknownst to many people, coriander is packed with potential health benefits that most people completely miss when they toss this garnish into the garbage after eating their meal. It has eleven components ofessential oils, six types of acids (includingascorbic acid, better known as vitamin C),mineralsandvitamins; each having a number of beneficial properties. A complete list is given below.
Health Benefits of CorianderHealth benefits of coriander include:Lowers Skin InflammationCineole, one of the 11 components of the essential oils, and linoleic acid are both present in coriander, and they possess antirheumatic and antiarthritic properties. They help to reduce the swelling that is caused by these two conditions. For other swelling conditions, such as swelling due to kidney malfunction or anemia, it is also seen to be effective to some extent,because some of the components in coriander help induce urination and the release of excess water from the body. Thereductionin skin inflammation leads to a reduction in discomfort, and an improvement in skin appearance.Treats Skin DisordersThe disinfectant, detoxifying, antiseptic, antifungal and antioxidant properties of coriander are ideal forclearingup skin disorders such aseczema, drynessand fungal infections.Lowers Cholesterol LevelsThe acids present in coriander, like linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) are very effective inreducing cholesterol levels in the blood. They also reduce the level ofbad cholesterol (LDL) deposition along the inner walls of the arteries and veins, which can lead to seriouscardiovascular issues likeatherosclerosis,heartattacks, and strokes. More importantly, this herbhelps to raise the levels of healthy cholesterol (HDL), which works as apreventative line of defense againsta number of dangerous conditions.Treats DiarrheaThe components of essential oils found in coriander such as borneol and linalool, aid indigestion, properfunctioning of the liver and bonding of bowels, while also helping to reduce diarrhea. It is alsohelpful incuring diarrhea caused by the microbial and fungal action, since components like cineole, borneol, limonene, alpha-pinene & beta-phellandrene have antibacterial effects.Coriander is also increasingly popular as ameans of preventing nausea, vomiting, and stomach disorders. Its wealth of bioactive compounds means that new health benefits are always being discovered in this power-packed plant.In addition to these health aspects of the stomach, fresh coriander leaves are excellent appetizers to get your bowels prepared for a large meal.Regulates Blood PressureConsuming coriander has been shown to positively reduce blood pressure in many patients sufferingfrom hypertension. It enhances the interaction ofcalciumions and acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the peripheral and central nervous system, relaxes blood vessel tension; thereby reducing the chances of a number of cardiovascular conditions, includingheart attacks and strokes.Treats Mouth UlcersCitronellol, a component of essential oils in coriander, is an excellent antiseptic. Additionally, other components have antimicrobial andhealing effectswhich keep wounds and ulcers in the mouth from worsening. They help speed up the healing process of ulcers and also preventbad breath. Although not commonly used in mainstream products, coriander is often used as an antiseptic component of all-natural kinds of toothpaste. In fact, before the invention of toothpaste, people would chew on corianderseedsto reduce bad breath!Prevents AnemiaIt is high inironcontent, which directly helpspeople who suffer fromanemia. Low iron content in the blood can result in shortness of breath, heart palpitations, extreme fatigue, and a decrease in cognitive functions. Iron also benefits proper functioning of other organ systems,increases energy and strength, and promotes bone health.Anti-allergic PropertiesMultiple studies have shown coriander to have strong anti-histamine properties that can reduce the uncomfortable effects of seasonalallergiesand hayfever(rhinitis). Its oil can also be used to reduce allergicreactionsthat are caused due to contact with plants, insects,food, and other substances. Internally, it can ward off anaphylaxis, hives, and dangerous swelling of the throat and glands. It’s never a bad idea to protect yourself against allergic reactions, especially since it is difficult to know what you might be allergic to until you come in contactwith it for the first time!Salmonella ProtectionSalmonella is one of the most dangerous causes of foodborne illnesses in the world, so any natural way to protect against it is very important. Coriander has unusually high levels of dodecenal, a natural compound that is actually twice as powerful of an antibiotic as theleading treatmentfor salmonella-based illness. By addingit to your normal diet, you protect your body from horribly uncomfortable, and even fatal, illnesses relating to these deadly bacteria.Improves Bone HealthAs a rich source of calcium, coriander is ofgreat valuefor people who want to protect the integrity of their bones. Calcium and other essential minerals found in coriander are integral components of bone regrowth and durability, as well as in the prevention ofosteoporosis. Addingeven a small amount of coriander to your diet can help to keep your bones healthy and strong for years to come. Calcium is particularly present in the center leaves of coriander, so aim for that part of the plant if bone health is your focus!Aids in DigestionCoriander, due to the rich aroma from its essential oils, helps in the proper secretion of enzymes and digestive juices in the stomach; thereby, stimulates digestion and peristaltic motion. It is also helpful in treatinganorexia. Besides the pleasant aroma of coriander, it has certain stimulatory qualities, derived from the minerals, and neurotransmitters are stimulated when coriander is ingested. Studieshave shown thatdyspepsia(indigestion) isreducedif corianderis regularly added to the diet. For small children, who have a higher chance of developing abdominal colic than adults, small amounts of coriander in their diet can quickly solve the issue!Cures SmallpoxThe essential oils in coriander are rich in antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-infectious and detoxifying components and acids. The presence of vitamin C and iron strengthens the immune system as well. These properties help prevent and cure smallpox, and they can also reduce the pain and have a soothing effect on smallpox patients. In places where smallpox outbreaks occur, studies have shown massive amounts of vitaminC have a definite curative effect on smallpox.Prevents Menstrual DisordersCilantro is a natural stimulant, and itregulates proper secretion from theendocrine glands, and this hormonal impact means that it helps regulate proper menstrual cycles and reduces the associated pain during a woman’s period.Eye CareCoriander is loaded with antioxidants,vitamin A, vitamin C and minerals like phosphorous, which prevents vision disorders, macular degeneration and itreducesstrain andstresson the eyes. There is also beta-carotene inthe leaves, which prevent a number of other diseases that affect the eye and can even reverse the effects of vision degradation in aging patients.Treats ConjunctivitisAs discussed earlier, coriander is a very good disinfectant and has antimicrobial properties that protect the eyes from contagious diseases like conjunctivitis.Coriander oilis one of the fundamental components of a number of eye care products.Controls DiabetesDue to the stimulating effect of coriander on the endocrine glands, thesecretion ofinsulin is increasedfrom the pancreas which subsequently increases the insulin level in the blood. This regulates the proper assimilation and absorption of sugar and the resulting drops in the sugar level in the blood. This property is extremely beneficial for patients who suffer fromdiabetesand otherrelated conditions, in order to lowertheir chances of dangerous spikes and drops their blood sugar levels, and to ensure other normal metabolic functions as well.Other BenefitsCilantro helps cure ulcers, inflammation, and spasms; while acting as an expectorant and protecting the liver. It is anticarcinogenic, anticonvulsant, antihistaminic and hypnotic. Coriander is believed to be a natural aphrodisiac and traditionally, it was widely used in combinations with other herbs to enhance a person’s libido.